Governor LePage Hints at Special Session (Under the Dome: Inside the Maine State House: 8.24.12)

While speaking at a fundraiser last week, Governor LePage indicated that he was considering calling the Legislature in for a special session. He did not disclose what he wanted to accomplish but did state that Democrat legislators would be displeased. These comments touched off wide-spread speculation the Governor's agenda and whether or not there would be a special session. At this point, the purpose of any special session is still largely speculation but is thought to involve paying hospitals some or all of the payments that they are due from the State. This speculation may be all for naught, as other statements from the State House indicate that the possibility of a special session looks less likely.

East-West Highway Study Slowed

Earlier this year, the Legislature authorized the Maine Department of Transportation to conduct a feasibility study for an east-west highway bisecting the State. Last week, state Senator Doug Thomas, who represents a district where that highway would likely be sited and a past proponent of the feasibility study, asked the Governor to halt the study. This proposal has become an election year hot potato, with many in northern Maine expressing concerns regarding eminent domain and other issues. Governor LePage agreed to significantly slow, but not suspend, the study, bringing the likelihood of this project advancing further into question.

Confirmation Session Scheduled, Nominees Being Announced

The state Senate will convene on September 6th to confirm a number of gubernatorial nominees. The first week in September should be relatively busy at the State House, with nominees first appearing before committees of jurisdiction before they are sent to the full Senate on the 6th.

With the confirmation session coming up, some nominees have been announced. On August 20th, the Governor announced eleven judicial nominees. Nine of these were actually re-nominations of sitting judges. The two new nominees, Daniel Billings and John...